A delegation from the Independent Industrialists and Businessmen’s Association (MUSIAD), led by Founding Chairman and International Business Forum (IBF) President Erol Yarar, visited Syria to explore opportunities for economic cooperation and contribute to the country’s reconstruction efforts following the collapse of the Assad regime.
The delegation held meetings with Syrian business leaders and officials in Idlib, Aleppo, and Damascus, discussing strategic partnerships in trade, industry and humanitarian aid.
Strategic talks with Syrian leadership
During their visit to Damascus, the delegation met with Syria’s new Minister of Economy and Trade Basil Abdulaziz. Discussions focused on investment opportunities and strategies for economic collaboration.
“We explained that MUSIAD is not just a business association but an organization that develops international economic strategies,” Yarar stated. He added that MUSIAD proposed key recommendations for Syria’s economic recovery and announced plans for a follow-up international meeting to further these discussions.
The MUSIAD and IBF delegation visited the city of Aleppo in Syria and made many contacts. The delegation, led by MUSIAD Founding Chairman and IBF President Erol Yarar, MUSIAD Vice Chairman Davut Altunbas and MUSIAD High Council Member and IBF Vice President Gazi Misirli, met with Aleppo Governor Fevvaz Hilal, Aleppo Chamber of Commerce President Mustafa Akta and Aleppo Chamber of Industry President Mudar Al-Omar.
The delegation then visited the historical Aleppo Citadel. During the meetings, discussions were held on strategic work to be started in the near future, ongoing humanitarian aid activities and projects to be put forward for the development of the region.
MUSIAD
Strengthening Türkiye-Syria business relations
Yamen Shami, president of the Syrian Businessmen’s Association, emphasized the importance of building relations with Türkiye as a strategic partner.
“We prioritized establishing ties with Türkiye first. Strengthening relationships with Arab and Islamic countries is also essential,” Shami said. He stated that Syria is now turning a new page and aims to expand its international economic networks.
Invitation for international investment in Syria
Ahmed Abdulgafur, a member of the Syrian Businessmen’s Association, underscored the importance of collaboration with Turkish business leaders.
“We have taken significant steps toward building solid business relationships. I invite all investors to consider opportunities in Syria. Our country is open to everyone,” Abdulgafur said.
The delegation visited Ambassador Burhan Koroglu, who was appointed as Türkiye’s Chargé d’Affaires in Damascus, in his office and held important meetings to develop economic and commercial relations between the two countries.
MUSIAD
Collaborative projects for Syria’s economic revival
Mahmud el-Zeyn, another member of the association, stressed the potential benefits of leveraging Türkiye’s experience in construction and infrastructure.
“Turkish businesses are among the world’s leaders in construction. We aim to work together in rebuilding infrastructure and planning cities,” el-Zeyn noted. He also expressed hope for close cooperation in rebuilding Syria’s economy.
